Eating Well in the Gaslamp

摘要

Brett Coffee San Diego has been called America's Finest City. While most people believe this name refers to the city's beautiful weather, incredible natural splendor, or cutting-edge technology sector, it could just as well apply to dining out in this stunning corner of Southern California. While San Diego has long been proud of its place in the culinary world, now may be the best time to visit local restaurants. The historic Gaslamp Quarter, just steps from the San Diego Convention Center, has gained a new vibrancy with the recent construction of a baseball stadium and after hosting last year's Super Bowl. Local restaurants have redoubled their efforts to create outstanding dishes and stay at the cutting edge of dining. Within a stone's throw from the convention center or your hotel, some amazing culinary treats await you. Below are some of the restaurants I really love in this area, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I have. SUSHI DELI TOO 339 W. Broadway 619-233-3072 For lunch or dinner, you can't go wrong at this moderately priced bistro, where the sushi is always a great value. The lines here can become long, so try the off-times if your schedule is tight. If you have never tried sushi, Sushi Deli Too's wide array of choices and great prices would be a great introduction. $$, lunch, dinner AQUA BLU 734 Fifth Ave. 619-544-6456 One of my favorites, this classy restaurant offers a wine list that is surpassed only by the quality of the fish. The interior is designed to resemble an art deco version of a ship, and the ambience is perfect for both large and small groups. The ahi and the mahimahi here are always delicious, and for a real treat try the shrimp and scallop potstickers. $$$$, lunch, dinner GREYSTONE THE STEAKHOUSE 658 Fifth Ave. 619-232-0225 If you're staying downtown for dinner, you can't find a better steak than at Greystone. This definitely isn't a budget meal, but the steaks here taste like you always imagined they should, and the wine list provides enough options to suit any palate. But they don't stop at steak: The bison is superb, and the side dishes are a treat. The staff is extraordinarily knowledgeable if a bit straightlaced. Certainly one of the brightest stars in the Gaslamp and a wonderful choice for a very special dinner. $$$$, dinner OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY 275 Fifth Ave. 619-233-4323 Speaking of solid values, this familystyle Italian eatery is close to the convention center, has outstanding food, and won't cost you an arm and a leg. Be prepared to have fun. This place is always hopping, and the staff is almost programmed tomake sure you have a great time. If you don't get here early, be ready to wait in the bar--but the food is worth the wait. Fans of Buca di Beppo (which is just a few blocks away) may find the playbook here awfully similar, but for my money I'll always head to the Factory. $$, lunch, dinner YARD HOUSE 1023 Fourth Ave. 619-233-9273 This relative newcomer has based its reputation on an extensive beer selection (over 120 on tap), but the eclectic menu can stand on its own quite nicely. The food is a wide range of tastes and styles--Asian flavors mixed with Californian and traditional favorites. Be sure to make reservations, as this place is filled almost every night. $$$, lunch, dinner CAFE SEVILLA 555 Fourth Ave. 619-233-5979 This local slice of Spain specializes in tapas and paella, with a little flamenco dancing thrown in on the side. But don't forget to order some sangria, which is as good as any you'll find in the U.S. $$$, dinner DOBSON'S BAR AND RESTAURANT 956 Broadway Circle 619-231-6771 This hidden gem is a favorite of the theater crowd, but the food here is as wonderful as the staff's ability to get people out in time for the show. N